Shankardas Kesarilal, aka Shailendra (1923 – 1966), translated from the Hindi by Manfred Spencer Alverston & Associates

Shankardas Kesarilal, aka Shailendra (1923 – 1966), translated from the Hindi by Manfred Spencer Alverston & Associates

Oh little darling child, in your closed fist!

Oh Little Darling Child, what is it that you carry in your closed fist?

Inside this closed fist is our fate

Inside this closed fist is our destiny

We have overpowered fortune.

What is it that those innocent and perceptive eyes behold?

In these eyes the illumination of hope flourishes

In these eyes the illumination of hope brandishes

The dream of the world that is due to arrive soon is adorned.

Oh Little Darling Child, what is it that you carry in your closed fist?

If by charity, you’re dispensed precious pearls, will you accept them or not?

Tell me, what you will make of life’s tears?

If by charity, we’re dispensed precious pearls, we will still never accept them.

We will wear the rosaries made with life’s tears instead.

Nevertheless, living is diverting when you must walk about fighting hardships.

Oh Little Darling Child, what is it that you carry in your closed fist?

Dear children, do not hide from us, please tell us!

Please explain to us, what will the future be like?

In the future, every one of us will have a crown atop our heads.

There will no longer be throngs of hungry people.

There will be no reigns of suffering

The time will change, that is written upon our stars!

Oh Little Darling Child, what is it that you carry in your closed fist?

Shankardas Kesarilal, aka Shailendra (1923 – 1966), translated from the Hindi by Manfred Spencer Alverston & Associates